E-bikes
E-bike Use
Before purchasing or heading out on an e-bike you should understand the rules for use on our roads and within our community.
There has been an increase in the use of e-bikes since the Province made changes to the Highway Traffic Act. The regulatory changes support the safe use of e-bikes as a form of active transportation. The safe inclusion of e-bikes requires the knowledge and understanding of the rules by not only e-bike riders but also drivers and pedestrians.
As a community, we must all follow the rules and be courteous to one another for the safety and enjoyment of all.
Permitted Use
Trails
The respectful and safe use of our trails allows everyone to enjoy our trail network. To learn more, view the Recreational Trail Users Code.
E-bike users, like cyclists, must follow the rules set out in the Parks and Facilities By-law when using our multi-use trails:
- travel at safe speeds
- obey signage
- yield to pedestrians
- keep right unless passing
- use a bell, horn or verbal indication when passing
- use caution around pedestrians
- dismount when crossing streets
- operate in a safe and prudent manner
Sidewalks
For the safety of pedestrians, e-bikes are not allowed on our sidewalks. Please use the road.
Road
When travelling along roadways and streets, including bike lanes, follow the same rules of the road that apply to bicycles.
Learn more about the rules of the road and e-bikes
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is an E-bike? |
| A power-assisted bicycle, more commonly referred to as an e-bike, has to meet federal standards set out in the Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
The Ministry of Transportation provides more information on the various types of alternative vehicles and their requirements: |
| What are the safety and operating requirements for an e-bike? |
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E -bike users travelling along roads, multi-use trails and bike lanes/routes, must follow the same rules as set out in the Highway Traffic Act that apply to cyclists, with some exceptions. For more information on the rules and operating requirements for on the road use please refer to the Ministry of Transportation's Frequently Asked Questions on Electric Bicycles ("e-bikes"). In Oshawa, e-bike users can ride on multi-use trails. Users must:
Due to their size and speed, e-bikes must not be ridden on sidewalks - view the by-law for more information. |
| What is a multi-use trail? |
E-bikes are permitted to use multi-use trails but must follow the same rules as cyclists under the Parks and Facilities By-law and as signed along the trail system. Fines for improper use will apply. A multi-use trail:
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| What is a sidewalk? |
| A sidewalk is a path for pedestrians along the side of a road or a street. E-bikes are prohibited from using sidewalks in Oshawa. With the exception of the downtown cyclists are permitted to use sidewalks within the City of Oshawa. |
| What is a bike lane? |
| Bike lanes are dedicated spaces for cyclists where motorists are not allowed to park, stand or drive. E-bikes are allowed to use bike lanes within the City of Oshawa but must follow the rules of the road. |
| What is a bike route? |
| A bike route can either be on-road or off-road. On-road routes are sometimes marked through signage and by painted lines. Where permitted motorists are able to park in a cycling route. |